Review: Therm-a-Rest Comfort System

Tired of that foamy sleeping pad? Upgrade to this customized comfort system

Bed

Whether you're hunkering down in a tent in the Costa Rican jungle or hut-and-hostel surfing through Europe, use this three-piece system to create a versatile warm-weather bed. First, buy a Fitted Sheet for your Therm-a-Rest pad (sheets come in three sizes, $21 to $25). Sheets fit snugly, and they'll work with similar inflatable foam pads of any brand. Made of soft, brushed polyester, the sheets feel like 400-count Egyptian cotton when the alternative is having your cheek pasted to a clammy sleeping pad. Next, choose your quilt: the 40°F Ventra Down Comforter ($200, 2 lbs., pictured) or the summer-weight (unrated) synthetic Tech Blanket ($50, 1 lb. 5 oz.). Snap the blanket to the sheet and climb in. The system is much roomier than a mummy bag, making it ideal for big guys and toss-and-turners. "The snaps along the sides, plus the drawcord at the foot, gave me tons of ventilation options," said our tester. Both quilts come in regular and long sizes. thermarest.com. Reader service #119